An in-house marketing team having a meeting at a wooden table. People are using different digital devices and having a discussion

The hierarchy of an in-house marketing team in the UK can vary from organisation to organisation, but a common structure is:

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) - The top-level executive responsible for overseeing the entire marketing strategy and leading the marketing team.

Marketing Director - A senior marketing executive who leads the day-to-day operations of the marketing department and is responsible for implementing the marketing strategy.

Marketing Manager - A middle-level manager responsible for managing specific marketing campaigns or initiatives.

Marketing Coordinator or Executive - Entry-level positions responsible for supporting the marketing team with tasks such as research, data analysis, and content creation.

Digital Marketing Manager - A specialist responsible for overseeing the company's digital marketing efforts, including email marketing, social media, and online advertising.

Brand Manager - A specialist responsible for managing and maintaining the company's brand identity and ensuring consistency across all marketing materials.

Product Manager - A specialist responsible for managing the development, marketing, and sales of a specific product line.

Event Manager - A specialist responsible for planning and executing events to promote the company's products or services.

This hierarchy can vary based on the size and structure of the organisation, but it provides a general understanding of the roles and responsibilities within an in-house marketing team in the UK.

What's the average day working for an in-house marketing team?

The average day for a member of an in-house marketing team can vary depending on their role and level of seniority. However, here is a general idea of what a typical day might look like for a few common roles within a marketing team:

Marketing Manager

  • Reviewing and responding to emails and requests from colleagues and external partners

  • Conducting research and analysing data to inform marketing strategy and tactics

  • Collaborating with designers and writers to create marketing materials

  • Planning and executing marketing campaigns

  • Meeting with cross-functional teams to discuss progress and identify opportunities for improvement

Marketing Coordinator or Executive

  • Assisting with the creation of marketing materials, such as social media posts, email campaigns, and blog articles

  • Conducting research and analysing data to support the marketing team's efforts

  • Helping to plan and execute marketing campaigns and events

  • Responding to customer inquiries and providing support to the sales team

Digital Marketing Manager

  • Reviewing and analysing website and social media metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement

  • Developing and executing digital marketing strategies, such as email campaigns and social media advertising

  • Collaborating with designers and writers to create engaging digital content

  • Meeting with cross-functional teams to discuss progress and identify opportunities for improvement

This is just a general idea of what a typical day might look like for a few common roles in an in-house marketing team. The specific tasks and responsibilities will vary depending on the company and the individual's role, but the goal is to work together to develop and execute effective marketing strategies that support the overall business objectives.

3 people having a conversation in front of a wall that has large pieces of paper attached to it. The papers have charts, figures, and the steps of a marketing plan on them

What's the benefits of working in an in-house marketing team?

Working in an in-house marketing team offers a number of benefits, including:

Close Collaboration

In-house marketing teams have the advantage of working closely with other departments, such as sales, product development, and customer service. This allows for seamless communication and collaboration, which can lead to more effective marketing strategies.

Deep Understanding of the Company and its Products

Working in-house provides a unique opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the company and its products. This can help you create more relevant and impactful marketing campaigns.

Career Growth Opportunities

In-house marketing teams often have more opportunities for growth and advancement than agencies, due to the broader range of responsibilities and exposure to various aspects of the business.

Flexibility

In-house marketers often have more control over their schedules and workload, allowing for a better work-life balance.

Workplace Culture

In-house marketing teams often have a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork, as they are working towards a common goal and have a shared interest in the success of the company.

Access to Resources

Working in-house provides access to a wider range of resources, such as data, technology, and budget, which can be used to support marketing initiatives and drive results.

Improved Relationship with Customers

In-house marketing teams have the opportunity to build strong relationships with customers, which can lead to valuable feedback and insights that can inform future marketing strategies.

These are just a few of the benefits of working in an in-house marketing team. The specific benefits will vary depending on the company and the individual's role, but in general, working in-house can provide a challenging and rewarding career opportunity for marketing professionals.

What kind of person do I need to be to succeed at in-house marketing?

To succeed in an in-house marketing role, you should possess certain qualities and skills, including:

Strategic Thinking

In-house marketers must be able to think critically and strategically about how to promote the company and its products in the most effective way possible.

Communication Skills

Excellent communication skills are essential for in-house marketers, as they need to be able to effectively convey their ideas and plans to colleagues, partners, and customers.

Adaptability

In-house marketers must be able to adapt to changes in the market, technology, and the company itself, and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Collaboration

In-house marketing teams work closely with other departments, so strong collaboration skills are important for success.

Project Management

In-house marketers are often responsible for managing multiple projects at once, so strong project management skills are essential.

Creativity

In-house marketers must be able to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to marketing challenges.

Attention to Detail

In-house marketers must pay close attention to detail to ensure that all marketing materials and campaigns are accurate and effective.

Data Analysis

In-house marketers must be able to analyse data and use it to inform their decisions and measure the success of their marketing efforts.

Customer Focus

In-house marketers must have a customer-centric mindset and be committed to understanding their needs and delivering the best possible customer experience.

These are just a few of the qualities and skills that can help you succeed in an in-house marketing role. The specific requirements will vary depending on the company and the individual's role, but in general, a successful in-house marketer will be strategic, creative, collaborative, customer focused.

7 people from an in-house marketing team sat around a table discussing colour options for a marketing campaign

How do I start a career in in-house marketing?

Starting a career in in-house marketing typically requires the following steps:

Education

Most in-house marketing positions require at least a bachelor's degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field. Many employers also value experience or additional certifications in areas such as digital marketing or data analysis.

Gain experience

Consider starting your career in a junior marketing role, such as a marketing assistant or coordinator. This will provide you with the opportunity to gain practical experience and develop your skills while working under the guidance of more experienced marketers.

Network

Attend industry events and conferences and connect with other marketing professionals to expand your network and learn about potential job opportunities.

Build a portfolio

Create a portfolio of your work to showcase your skills and experience. This can include samples of marketing materials you have created, campaigns you have executed, and data and metrics that demonstrate the impact of your efforts.

Apply for jobs

Once you have the education, experience, and skills you need, start applying for in-house marketing positions that align with your interests and goals. Be prepared to provide examples of your experience, explain why you are interested in in-house marketing, and showcase your portfolio.

Keep learning

The marketing industry is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. Consider taking courses, attending webinars, and reading relevant books and articles to continue developing your skills.

These are general steps to follow to start a career in in-house marketing. The specific requirements and steps may vary depending on the company and the individual's career goals, but the key is to be proactive, network, and continuously develop your skills and experience.

Are in-house marketing jobs in the UK usually quite plentiful?

The availability of in-house marketing jobs in the UK can vary depending on the current economic conditions and the specific industry. Generally, in-house marketing jobs are considered to be relatively plentiful, as most companies have a need for internal marketing support.

However, the competition for in-house marketing jobs can be high, as many individuals with marketing backgrounds are attracted to these roles due to the stability and benefits they offer. To increase your chances of securing an in-house marketing role, it is important to have a strong education, relevant experience, and a well-crafted resume and portfolio that showcases your skills and achievements.

Additionally, networking and building relationships with other marketing professionals can also help you learn about potential job opportunities and get your foot in the door at companies where you would like to work.